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SRAM takes over Shockwiz Kickstarter project

Company will manufacture the electronic shock controller in South Dakota

SPEARFISH, S.D. (BRAIN) — SRAM has taken over a Kickstarter-supported project to manufacture an electronic suspension control device developed by a Perth, Australia company, Dusty Dynamics.

SRAM will manufacture the ShockWiz at its Quarq facility in South Dakota and deliver it to Kickstarter backers under the Quarq label. Beyond the Kickstarter project, it's not clear how SRAM will use the technology in future projects.

"The technology shows great promise and we are excited to explore other applications," said Quarq's founder, Jim Meyer.

The ShockWiz can adjust settings on most air-spring suspension forks and shocks. It mates with a mobile app and has automated features to make tuning easier. During its crowd-funding campaign in June and July 2015, Dusty Dynamics raised $133,000 from 404 backers, exceeding its goal of $90,000. The Kickstarter campaign had promised to start delivering the product to backers this summer and SRAM said deliveries to backers will begin in August. The ShockWiz is Dusty Dynamics' first product.

SRAM said Quarq and RockShox engineers will work on the project along with Dusty Dynamics' founder Nigel Wade.

"The intersection of bicycles and technology is nearly infinite, but we really want to make bicycles better to ride. We are looking for creations that take away the thinking and leave the thrill. ShockWiz does that."

Wade said, "Quarq and RockShox are world leaders in bicycle electronics and suspension. With the backing of SRAM I can deliver performance and support that would take Dusty Dynamics many years to match."

"I have spent time in Spearfish and Colorado Springs, in the R&D labs and on the trails. The wisdom and experience of the SRAM team has been and will continue to be invaluable. Backers will be rewarded with a first-rate tuning system."